In TCM, lung and spleen (the Tai Yin segment) are the source of post natal energy of the human beings. Lung provides Qi from the breathed air whilest the spleen provides Qi from consumed food and drink. In newborn babies or small children, the respiratory and digestive systems are developing fast, in order to function as the "post natal" Qi providers for the development of the child. This makes these two systems very vulnerable, as they are the most hard working systems in the young body. Moreover, the lungs are in charge of the Wei Qi, which is the defense system against exogenous pathogens. Being in a developing state, this Wei Qi is still very weak and vulnerable thereby allowing exogenous intruders into the breathing system very frequently. One of the clinical signs of a weak spleen in TCM, is the production of internal dampness. This dampness manifests as loose stools and/or diarrhea. As said above, the spleen and lung form the Tai Yin segment of energy in the body, thus having a close relationship with one another. Formation of damp energy in the spleen domain, will easily find its way into the lung (breathing) system. This dampness obstructs the respiratory pathways and may cause cough, dyspnea, running nose etc.

Well, Meiri, it's never too late to ask a question... My private inclination is to treat small children with acupuncture. Contrary to other opinions that i have frequently heard, acupuncture works extremely quickly and efficiently in babies and small children, and I personally think that it is safer than herbs. Especially for those that have gastrointestinal sensitivities. A useful combination for this disorder in small children, would be the combo: B-13/ Du-12/ St-36 For excessive phlegm add: L-7/ B-12/ Du-14For excessively soft stools and frequent diarrhea you may add: Sp-5 and moxa stick on Ren-8Please note that points such as B-20 or St-25/ Ren-4->6 that might be suitable for adults have been omitted, as puncturing those might be painful to the infant. It goes without saying, that foods and drinks that increase the amount of dampness in the body should be avoided as strictly as possible. Some of those may be: dairy products, soy milk, too much fruit, cold drinks and icecreams etc.

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